How can a company apply for BOI promotion in Thailand?
Businesses must confirm that their proposed activity qualifies for investment promotion, prepare a detailed project plan, and submit an application through the BOI’s electronic system. During boi company registration thailand planning, founders should coordinate investment approval with incorporation, ownership, licensing, tax, immigration, and operational requirements.
BOI promotion is available only for eligible activities that satisfy the relevant conditions. Qualifying sectors may include advanced manufacturing, digital businesses, research and development, biotechnology, automation, electronics, international business services, and other activities prioritised by Thailand’s investment policy. The applicable requirements vary by activity.
A practical application process includes:
- Identify the correct promoted activity.
- Review its minimum investment and operating conditions.
- Prepare the business and investment plan.
- Submit the application through the e-Investment system.
- Attend a project clarification meeting.
- Respond to additional information requests.
- Receive and accept the promotion decision.
- Apply for the promotion certificate.
- Incorporate or update the Thai legal entity.
- Complete post-approval registrations.
BOI applications are generally submitted electronically. Supporting materials may include business details, financial statements where available, production or service processes, machinery information, project expenses, employment plans, technology details, and documents required for the selected activity.
What should founders prepare before applying?
Founders should prepare realistic information about project costs, funding sources, equipment, technology, staffing, operating location, revenue expectations, and implementation schedules. The proposal must explain how the project meets the conditions of the selected promotion category.
BOI promotion and company incorporation are connected but separate processes. Applicants may begin investment-promotion planning before the Thai entity is fully established, but an approved business must complete the required corporate and certificate procedures before using its privileges.
Potential non-tax privileges may include permission for qualifying foreign ownership, support for bringing foreign specialists into Thailand, and permission to own land for an approved project.
Tax privileges may include corporate income tax or import-duty incentives, depending on the activity and approval conditions. Not every promoted project receives the same benefits.
A BOI-promoted foreign company conducting an activity restricted under the Foreign Business Act may apply for a Foreign Business Certificate instead of following the normal Foreign Business License route.
Approval is only the beginning. Promoted companies must follow project conditions, maintain accurate investment records, meet implementation deadlines, and obtain any separate licences required for their operations.
Careful preparation helps founders select the correct activity, present consistent information, and avoid delays during assessment and certificate issuance.